Moving beyond threshold-based dichotomous classification to improve the accuracy in classifying non-responders.

We examined maximal oxygen consumption responses following exercise training to demonstrate the limitations associated with threshold-based dichotomous classification of responders and non-responders and proposed alternative methods for classification. Specifically, we: 1) calculated individual probabilities of response, and 2) classified individuals using response confidence intervals (CI) and reference points of zero and a smallest worthwhile change of 0.5 METs.

Does blood lactate predict the chronic adaptive response to training: A comparison of traditional and talk test prescription methods.

The purpose of this study was to test the hypotheses (i) that interindividual variability in acute blood lactate responses during exercise at 65% of peak work rate (WR; relative WR protocol (REL)) will predict variability in the chronic responses to exercise training and (ii) that exercising at an intensity that causes uncomfortable speech production (negative talk test (TT) stage (NEG)) elicits high acute blood lactate responses and large adaptations to training. Twenty-eight participants completed 4 weeks of exercise training consisting of REL (n = 14) or NEG (TT, n = 14). Fifteen additional participants were assigned to a no-exercise control group (n = 15).